Motion Theater Seat Actuation for Compact Synchronized Seating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion simulator technologies are not suitable for movie theaters due to space constraints, as they require significant space for actuation and do not effectively integrate motion into individual seats.
Innovation Solution
An actuated chair system with a seat base and an actuating base that includes link members with translational and rotational degrees of freedom, connected by linear actuators, allowing for synchronized motion with video outputs, and a control panel for user-adjustable motion intensity, including automatic mode based on user weight detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional motion simulators are used in movie theaters, then motion experience is provided, but space requirements are not met due to the large size of existing motion simulator systems
Solution Approach 1:
The motion system is segmented into three independent linear actuators that can be distributed around the seat base, eliminating the need for a single large centralized motion mechanism. This allows the motion functionality to be achieved within the compact footprint of an individual theater seat while maintaining effective motion delivery to the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D planar motion mechanisms to a 3D spatial arrangement using three linear actuators positioned at different locations around the seat base. This three-dimensional configuration enables compact integration within seat space constraints while achieving six-degree-of-freedom motion capability through coordinated actuator operation.
2Area of stationary object
If compact actuation mechanisms are used to fit theater seat space, then space constraints are satisfied, but the complexity of integrating motion into individual seats increases
Solution Approach 1:
The three linear actuators serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide motion in three translational directions (X, Y, Z), enable three rotational movements through coordinated action, and can be independently controlled for different motion profiles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying overall system integration despite the compact configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat base structure serves as an intermediary platform that distributes and coordinates the motion forces from the three linear actuators to the seat cushion and backrest. This intermediary structure simplifies the integration complexity by providing a unified interface between the actuation system and the seating components, managing the complexity internally while presenting a simple interface externally.
Data Source
AI summary
The present document describes an actuated chair for inducing motion with respect to the ground as a function of motion signals synchronized with a video output of a feature length movie. The chair comprises a seat base, and an actuating base for receiving the motion signals. The actuating base comprises three link members, namely a first link member, a second link member and a third link member. Each link member has one translational degree of freedom and two rotational degrees of freedom. The first link member and the second link member are attached to the seat base closer to the rear edge than the third link member. The actuating base further comprises three linear actuators for inducing motion to the seat base. The actuators are fixed to the frame and each actuator is respectively connected to the seat base using a respective one of the three link members.